Malacañang has urged the public not to panic or hoard bottled water amid expectations of a super El Niño, saying there is no information indicating that supplies will run short.
Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the government has no information pointing to a possible shortage of drinking water in groceries and other stores.
Castro urged the public to prepare for the possible effects of drought but advised consumers to avoid purchasing more bottled water than they need.
She explained that excessive stockpiling could affect the availability and price of bottled water because it reduces the amount of products available in the market.
The Palace also noted that El Niño is not a new phenomenon in the Philippines and that the government has a Task Force El Niño focused on preparing for and responding to its effects.
The government’s statement comes as authorities prepare for the possible impacts of the expected super El Niño.
While the public was encouraged to prepare for drought conditions, Malacañang stressed that there is currently no basis for panic buying or hoarding bottled water.
Castro’s appeal focused on maintaining normal purchasing behavior to help ensure that bottled water remains available in stores.
The Palace did not report any current shortage of bottled water in groceries or other stores.
Authorities have continued preparations through the Task Force El Niño, which is tasked with addressing the potential effects of the weather phenomenon.
The public was therefore encouraged to prepare responsibly and purchase only what is necessary, rather than accumulating excessive stocks.
